Using the Microsoft bot framework to build Kik bots

May 18, 2016Bots

The Microsoft Bot Framework allows developers to write bot code once and, using the Microsoft Bot Connector, deploy on multiple channels, including Skype, Slack, and SMS. Today, I’m happy to announce that Kik has also been launched as a channel on the Microsoft Bot Connector.

After a month of close collaboration between the Microsoft and Kik bot platform engineering teams, it is now possible for new and existing Bot Framework developers to have their bots work on Kik with minimal effort.

If you’re not familiar with Kik, don’t be alarmed – just ask a teenager for help. As you design and build your bot, keep in mind that 40% of US teenagers use Kik, so they should be your target audience. Teenagers are highly engaged on mobile and like to spread things, so keep virality in mind as you build for Kik.

Replace the endpoint URL you used as a placeholder in the Bot Framework registration in Step 2 with the correct endpoint URL.

http://.azurewebsites.net/api/messages

6. Turn on Kik as a channel for your bot

Edit your bot and add Kik as a channel here. Follow the steps under “Configure Kik”.

7. Test the bot on Kik

Find your bot by opening Kik, tapping the magnifying glass on the main screen, and searching for your bot’s username. Chat with your bot and it will respond with “Hello World”.

The Kik and Microsoft bot teams are excited to launch the Kik Channel on the Microsoft Bot Framework and look forward to seeing what Bots get created by you. Let us know about your bots when you’ve submitted to the store at [email protected].